Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches with distinct characteristics. The Ink Box Black is lauded for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Neo White switches offer a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing experience with a remarkably smooth actuation. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Neo White is described as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. When choosing between these switches, you may consider the Ink Box Black for its smoothness and distinctive sound, while the Neo White offers a satisfying typing experience and smooth actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and Haimu Neo White both incorporate unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Neo White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials result in a higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate in the Neo White switches is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the INK blend in the Gateron switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Haimu Neo White differ significantly in terms of sound characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black results in a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, emphasizing the clacky feel of the switch. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, providing a unique typing experience that differs from the Gateron switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the top housing of a switch typically influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Despite the differences in materials between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Haimu Neo White, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the clacky feel of the INK blend or the fuller sound of nylon, each switch material offers a distinct typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, they both offer a smooth linear feeling with no tactile bump. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Neo White, which doesn't have a specified actuation force. However, the Neo White has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Ink Box Black has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Neo White allows for a lighter touch during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they both provide the same tactile feel and response when pressed down on a key. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, whether you opt for the Gateron Ink Box Black or the Haimu Neo White, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
The Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a sharp and snappy spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switches offer a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing scenarios. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White switches provide a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. The rare use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switches contributes to their smooth actuation, making each keystroke satisfying.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and Haimu Neo White linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide a smooth typing experience. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Ink Box Black switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound with a more mild typing feel, the Neo White switches would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a slightly heavier typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, smooth and creamy keystrokes, and a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a smooth actuation with a slightly reduced total travel, and a neutral sound profile with a gentle typing experience, then the Haimu Neo White linear switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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